Should I Install Two Springs on My Garage Door If It Has Only One?

Springs counterbalance your garage door's weight. Many doors have one torsion spring, many have two. Two springs bring real benefits, but not every door needs them. Here's how to decide.

Do You Need Two Springs?

Yes and no. Two springs aren't required, but they can give a longer cycle life and a safer door. If your door has one spring, you can replace it with one. If it has two, always replace both when one breaks, because the other is near the end of its life. Replacing both at once also saves a second service call.

Types of Springs

• Torsion springs: mounted on a bar above the door opening; they twist to lift the door.
• Extension springs: mounted above the horizontal tracks on each side; they stretch and contract. Extension springs are always used in pairs.

Benefits of Two Springs

• Longer life: the weight is shared, so each spring works less hard.
• Safety: if one spring breaks, the other still supports part of the door's weight, so it's less likely to drop.
• Easier to move: the remaining spring helps if you have to move the door before the repair.
• Better value over time: higher upfront cost, but fewer replacements.

When One Spring Is Enough

• Lighter doors, such as most non-insulated single doors
• Doors used only a few times a day
• When upfront cost matters most

When to Choose Two Springs

• Heavier doors, such as insulated, double-wide or wood doors
• Doors used many times a day
• When you want extra safety and reliability
• When you'd rather pay a little more now and less later

Spring Materials

How long a spring lasts depends mainly on its cycle rating: standard springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles, and high-cycle springs for 20,000 or more.

What It Costs

• One torsion spring with labour: about $270 to $330
• Two torsion springs with labour: about $390 to $510
• Extension springs: $80 to $150 per spring plus labour
• Converting extension springs to torsion: $450 to $600

New springs carry a 3-year warranty. Prices are before GST.

Safety First

Spring replacement and adjustment are dangerous because of the high tension involved. Always use a trained technician.

• Safe for you: looking over the springs, lubricating moving parts, tightening loose hinge screws.
• For professionals only: spring replacement or adjustment, cables, drums and bearings.

How to Decide

1. Consider your door's size and material (a technician can confirm its weight).
2. Count roughly how many times a day you open and close it.
3. Weigh the upfront cost against fewer replacements later.
4. Ask a professional. We'll tell you honestly whether a second spring is worth it for your door.

Conclusion

One spring or two depends on your door's weight, how often you use it and your budget. Two springs add safety and longevity but aren't always necessary. Call 604.398.4009 for advice.